GOP/HEALTHCARE/OBAMACARE(ACA): “Republicans returning to Washington will decide in coming days whether to embrace or set aside a bipartisan health bill that has gained traction in Congress, a decision potentially made harder by President Donald Trump’s statements praising the effort but opposing the bill itself.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.) said on Sunday [10-22-17] the bipartisan bill’s support includes all 48 Senate Democrats as well as the 12 publicly committed Republicans, enough to overcome any filibuster. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.) said he would bring the bill to a vote if it is clear Mr. Trump will sign it…
Some GOP lawmakers have been talking with Mr. Trump in hopes he will decide to support the proposal, likely in exchange for some tweaks. On Tuesday, Mr. Trump is scheduled to appear at Senate Republicans’ weekly luncheon, where the discussion is expected to center on a tax overhaul and possibly health care. The visit will mark the first time the president has visited Capitol Hill to speak to the GOP senators.
Mr. Trump sounded supportive of the bipartisan deal initially but later signaled opposition. A White House spokesman has since said the president could only support a bipartisan agreement if it includes a series of conservative provisions.”
-Stephanie Armour and Alejandro Lazo, “Republicans Face Tough Decision on Bipartisan Health Bill,” The Wall Street Journal online, Oct. 23, 2017 07:00pm